How to discuss visa matters with employers

[MedRoni 161]

I would mention that you do have family matter that you have to attend to in another country that you can't get out of - just don't know when it is. I don't think you have to explain exactly what. But I would not mentioned it at the interview but at the time they offer you the job.

I have interviewed future employees before and I think asking for time off - no matter the reason - is a BIG turn off to me, the interviewer.

I completely agree here. It is a turn off at the interview.

When I interviewed for my last job I was in the same situation, I was not sure of when I would need to leave the country, but I knew I would need to go. When they offered me the job I mentioned I would love to work there however I would need to be travel on family business for two weeks within the next 6 months and was not sure just when yet. I let them know I would give them as much notice as possible, I was able to give them a months notice.

By the time I was able to take the trip they let me go with pay! So my advice, DO let them know if and when they offer you the job, but NOT at the interview itself.

[destiny64 222]

We have hired many people in our company that told us up front that they had a "prior commitment". It's respected and as everyone else has said better than springing it on them after. Remember most places have a 90 day probation period, throwing that in after getting hired could cost you further employment. It's happened to me as a supervisor, and I can tell you it doesn't sit well to find out after !

[AKSinghSingh79 143]

If they ask, of couse, you have to tell them. Don't deny it.

I just think saying at the interview that you need time off is presumptuous when you don't even know they are going to offer you a job.

I don't think that's lying or misleading if they didn't ask specifically.

Personally, being on both end of the interview before, I would not mention the time off at the interview but most definitely do before I accept their offer. They can always say they really need someone and can't let you go. Which at the point - you can take the offer or not. Don't wait until you've accepted the job to tell them. That would be unprofessional.

Ok, I see the difference.

Thank you all. I will NOT bring up the visa interview during the interview however I will mention it upon receiving an offer of employment. Thanks all!